Silliman baseball to clash with MAIS baseball power Central Private

Central Private has a rich baseball tradition with 12 Mississippi Association of Independent Schools state titles, including the Class 2A title last season.

But Clinton-based Silliman Institute, making its first playoff appearance since 2007, hopes to add to its two state titles (2000, ’02) when the teams meet for the MAIS Class 2A South State title starting Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at Central Private (17-11).

The best-of-three series resumes Friday at 4:30 p.m. at Silliman (21-7). A third game, if necessary, will be played Friday.

The South winner faces the North winner for the state title next week.

Silliman defeated Centerville in three games as the Wildcats claimed their first district title since 2005. Central Private finished second in district after winning 11 straight titles.

“It should be an interesting series,” Silliman coach John Beauchamp said. “Central Private has an edge in experience. I think my team is more talented. If we play up to our capabilities, we should do well.”

“It’s going to be a sellout crowd at our place, and we’re excited about the game,” Central Private coach Jason Kinchen said. “Eight starters graduated from our state title team. The younger guys stepped up this season. Our pitching and defense are strengths.”